A huge blaze has erupted in West London, swallowing a warehouse packed with fireworks and gas cylinders. The inferno has forced 150 firefighters to fight the flames from a safe distance amid fears of explosions.
150 Firefighters Battle Massive Fire at Southall Warehouse
Firefighters pulled back after flames devoured three-quarters of a two-storey warehouse and retail unit in Southall, Ealing. Thick black smoke billowed across London, spotted as far away as Merton, 17 miles south.
School and Flats Evacuated Amid Explosion Fears
Emergency crews evacuated a nearby school and a block of flats over fears the fireworks and gas cylinders could explode. Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne, the Brigade’s Incident Commander, said:
“This decision has been taken due to the suspected presence of fireworks and cylinders within the structure. All firefighters have withdrawn to a safe distance and are now fighting the fire from farther away to ensure crew safety.”
Witnesses Hear Fireworks Before Fire Breaks Out
Witnesses reported hearing fireworks around 8:40am, moments before the fire took hold. 26-year-old local, Ria, said:
“I started hearing firework noises at around 8:40 this morning.”
Residents have been told to keep doors and windows closed to avoid inhaling hazardous smoke. Traffic is severely disrupted as crews battle the blaze.
London Fire Brigade Prepares for Long Haul
“Due to the complex nature of the site and the fire’s scale, this will be a prolonged incident with crews continuing operations throughout the day,” added Assistant Commissioner Goulbourne.
The fire’s cause remains unknown as firefighters focus on containing the danger and protecting the community.
